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B-Cell Precursor ALL

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Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

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Abstract

B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL) is the most common form of pediatric ALL, consisting of >80% of ALL during childhood. In the past ALL was intractable, but now the survival probability is as high as 80–90%. Improved supportive care, treatment stratification based on relapse risk, biological features of leukemic cells, and optimization of treatment regimens by clinical trials have contributed to this dramatic improvement. Treatment regimens typically consist of induction therapy with steroids, vincristine, and asparaginase with or without anthracycline, followed by multiagent consolidation including high-dose/escalating methotrexate and re-induction therapy. After consolidation, less intensive maintenance therapy with thiopurines lasting for 1–2 years is given to maintain event free survival of the patients. The introduction of newly developed agents such as molecular targeted drugs or immunotherapy, and social supports including long-term follow up are required for further reduction of relapse risk without excess toxicity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Children’s Cancer Center, National Center for Child Health and Development, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan

    Motohiro Kato

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  1. Motohiro Kato
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Correspondence to Motohiro Kato .

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  1. Department of Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Children’s Cancer, Center National Center for Child Health and Development, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan

    Motohiro Kato

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Kato, M. (2020). B-Cell Precursor ALL. In: Kato, M. (eds) Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-15-0548-5_6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-15-0548-5_6

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